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Subject: Internal Security

  • Kashmiri political outfit declared unlawful under UAPA

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declared the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir faction as an “unlawful association” under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for five years.
    • It is a very rare occasion that any election-contesting political party has been banned under UAPA.

    Government’s Stance

    • The Union Home Minister emphasized that the organization and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities, supporting terrorism, and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir.
    • It stated that the faction is engaged in anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda, aiming for Jammu and Kashmir’s secession from India, its merger with Pakistan, and the establishment of Islamic rule.

    About Understanding the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)

    • Purpose: The UAPA aims to prevent unlawful activities and associations in India, focusing on maintaining the country’s integrity and sovereignty. Under Section 3 of the UAPA Act, the government has powers to declare an association “unlawful”.
    • Evolution: Originally passed in 1967, the UAPA has evolved from the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) and the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), with significant amendments in 2004 to include “terrorist act” in its scope.
    • Unlawful Activities: These include actions, whether by deeds, words, or visible representation, that work towards the cession or secession of a part of India, disrupt its sovereignty and territorial integrity, or cause disaffection against the country.
    • Unlawful Association: Under Section 3 of the UAPA Act, the government has powers to declare an association “unlawful”. An association can be deemed “unlawful” if it engages in, supports, or encourages unlawful activities, as defined under Section 2(p) of the UAPA.

    Unlawful Activities and Funding

    • Fundraising for Terrorism: The Ministry highlighted that the outfit has been raising funds through various sources, including Pakistan, to support unlawful activities and terrorism.
    • Stone-Pelting Incidents: The group’s involvement in stone-pelting against security forces was cited as a sign of disrespect towards India’s constitutional authority and setup.

    Linkages with Terrorist Organizations

    • Terror Connections: The MHA provided evidence of the faction’s connections with banned terrorist organizations and its role in supporting terrorist activities to instill terror in the country.
    • Government’s Concerns: The Central government expressed concerns that if unchecked, the faction would continue its anti-national activities, challenging India’s territorial integrity, security, and sovereignty.

    Implications of the Ban

    • UAPA Enforcement: The declaration under Section 3 (3) of the UAPA signifies a stringent approach against the group’s activities for the next five years.
    • National Security Focus: This move aligns with the government’s commitment to maintaining national security and integrity, particularly in the sensitive region of Jammu and Kashmir.

    Conclusion

    • Strong Message: The government’s decision sends a clear message against any forces acting against India’s unity, sovereignty, and integrity.
    • Continued Vigilance: The ban reflects India’s ongoing efforts to combat separatism and terrorism, ensuring peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir and across the nation.

  • INS Imphal: Everything you need to know

    ins imphal

    Central Idea

    • INS Imphal (Pennant D68), the third ship of the Visakhapatnam class stealth-guided missile destroyers, is set to join the Indian Navy.
    • Part of Project 15B, INS Imphal follows the lineage of the Delhi and Kolkata classes of indigenous destroyers.

    About INS Imphal

    Details
    Ship Name INS Imphal (Pennant D68)
    Class Visakhapatnam class stealth-guided missile destroyer (Project 15B)
    Commissioning Date Scheduled for December 26
    Builder Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDSL)
    Design Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau
    Propulsion System Combined gas and gas (COGAG) configuration with four gas turbines
    Maximum Speed 30 knots
    Range 4000 nautical miles
    Armament BrahMos surface-to-surface cruise missiles

    Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles

    127 mm main gun

    AK-630 30mm guns

    Torpedo launchers and anti-submarine rocket launchers
    Helicopter Facilities Can operate two multi-role helicopters (Sea King or HAL Dhruv)
    Strategic Features Stealth capabilities for reduced radar signature

    Advanced combat management system

    Total atmospheric control system (TACS) for protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical threats
    Significance Represents advanced naval warfare capabilities and strategic asset for the Indian Navy
    Tribute to Northeast India Named after the city of Imphal, honoring the strategic and historical significance of the Northeast region

  • SAMAR Air Defence System

    samar

    Central Idea

    • In a major success for its in-house design and development efforts, the Indian Air Force has successfully testfired its SAMAR air defence missile system.

    About SAMAR Air Defence System

    Details
    Full Name Surface to Air Missile for Assured Retaliation (SAMAR)
    Type Short-range air-defence system
    Developed By A unit under the IAF’s Maintenance Command
    Range 10–12 km
    Target Low-flying aerial targets
    Speed Missiles operating at a speed range of 2 to 2.5 Mach
    Key Features – Uses existing inventory of Vympel R-73E missiles

    – Twin-turret launch platform

    – Capable of single and salvo modes
    Role in Defence Supplementing IAF’s Akash and SPYDER systems, replacing older systems like Pechora and OSA-AK
    Deployment Not specified

    https://www.hindustantimes.com/videos/world-news/indian-missile-shield-against-potential-threats-from-pak-china-iaf-samar-system-in-action-101702815648038.html

  • A security breach that must lead to sweeping changes

    Massive security breach in Lok Sabha, 2 intruders jump from gallery, spray gas | Latest News India - Hindustan Times

    Central idea 

    The article discusses a security breach in the Lok Sabha, highlighting lapses in personal screening and outdated technology. It emphasizes the need for advanced security measures, questions the responsibility for technology upgrades, and calls for a comprehensive committee to ensure continuous oversight. The incident prompts reflections on securing democracy’s portals through constant monitoring and technological advancements.

    Key Highlights:

    • Security Breach: Lok Sabha breach on December 13, 2023, prompts concerns despite heightened security measures post-2001 attack.
    • Causes of Breach: Inadequate personal screening, traditional metal detectors’ limitations, and lack of vigilance contribute to breach.
    • Technological Need: Emphasizes the necessity for advanced technology like backscatter scanners for effective Parliament screening.

    Key Challenges:

    • Screening Limitations: Traditional metal detectors fail to detect non-metallic threats, showcasing screening vulnerabilities.
    • Vacant Security Positions: Key roles, including Joint Secretary, Security, and chiefs of CRPF and CISF, remain vacant.
    • Responsibility Gap: Ambiguity in responsibility for introducing and upgrading security technology in Parliament.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Parliament Security: Focus on the breach and the need for robust security measures.
    • Backscatter Scanner: Technological solution highlighted for enhanced visitor screening.
    • Unlawful Activities Act: Sections 16 and 18 invoked against intruders for acts related to terrorism.

    Key Quotes and Statements:

    • “The youngsters involved…inflicted the gravest damage by revealing gaps in Parliament security.”
    • “To protect the hallowed portals…security infrastructure is constantly monitored and upgraded with resolve.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Terrorist Attack Reference: Highlights 2001 attack and subsequent security enhancements.
    • Legal Action: Sections 16 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities Act invoked against intruders.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Vacant Positions: Key security positions, including Joint Secretary, Security, and chiefs of CRPF and CISF, remain unfilled.
    • Technology Gap: Absence of advanced technology, like backscatter scanners, for thorough screening.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Access Control Critique: Lapses in access control and personal screening procedures scrutinized.
    • Responsibility Query: Raises questions about responsibility for introducing and upgrading security technology.
    • Committee Advocacy: Advocates a comprehensive committee with MPs and specialists for continuous security oversight.

    Way Forward:

    • Supervision Call: Urges Secretary, Security, in the Cabinet Secretariat to supervise Parliament security.
    • Committee Formation: Recommends a committee with MPs and specialists for regular security monitoring.
    • MP Cooperation: Stresses the importance of MPs cooperating with enhanced security measures to protect democracy’s portals.

  • An anti-terror law and its interference with liberty

    UAPA Bill to designate individuals as terrorists introduced in house - The Economic Times

    Central idea 

    The Jammu and Kashmir High Court’s November 17, 2023 judgment in journalist Fahad Shah’s case questions the broad interpretation of terrorism under UAPA, rejecting its use for defamation. It emphasizes judicial scrutiny in upholding personal liberty, challenging Section 43-D(5), and calls for legal reforms and accountability, urging a just way forward.

    Key Highlights:

    • Court’s Intervention: The Jammu and Kashmir High Court’s November 17, 2023 judgment intervened in journalist Fahad Shah’s case, granting him bail and partially setting aside charges under UAPA and FCRA.
    • Call for Circumspection: The court emphasized the imperative for circumspection in enforcing anti-terror laws, particularly considering their impact on personal liberty.
    • Defamation vs. Terrorism: Rejecting the government’s argument, the court challenged the notion that publishing an article harming India’s reputation constituted an act of terrorism.

    Key Challenges:

    • Vague Terrorism Offenses: The vague text of terrorism offenses under UAPA allows arrests in situations disconnected from actual incidents of violence, contributing to misuse.
    • Section 43-D(5) Dilemma: The provision preventing bail if accusations are ‘prima facie true’ poses challenges to personal liberty, raising concerns about procedural fairness.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • UAPA: Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the primary anti-terror statute in India.
    • FCRA: Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, governing foreign funding.
    • Section 43-D(5): UAPA provision restricting bail based on the ‘prima facie true’ criterion.
    • Clear and Present Danger: Legal test invoked to restrict arrests based on a perceived immediate threat.

    Key Quotes:

    • “To treat allegations of defaming the country as terrorism seemed like a bridge just too far to cross.”
    • “Provisions such as Section 43-D(5) were meant to prevent the easy release of persons such as the imaginary bomber.”
    • “Both the law enforcement agency and the court must apply their mind to ensure that only in cases where a ‘clear and present danger’ is evinced are persons taken into custody.”

    Key Statements:

    • Judicial Emphasis: The judgment underscores the need for greater circumspection in enforcing anti-terror laws, especially concerning personal liberty.
    • Defamation Clarification: Defamation of the country was deemed not punishable under UAPA, challenging the expansive interpretation of terrorism.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Judicial Accountability: While not revolutionary, the decision highlights the importance of accountability in state actions, particularly in the context of oppressive laws.
    • Compensation Consideration: The legal regime needs to address compensations for wrongful arrest and detention, ensuring accountability and justice.

    Way Forward:

    • Legal Reforms: The legal system should consider reforms addressing compensations for wrongful arrests and enhancing state accountability.
    • Upholding Constitutional Principles: Courts must continue upholding constitutional principles, ensuring a commitment to accountability in state actions.

  • [pib] Exercise VINBAX 2023

    Exercise VINBAX

    Central Idea

    • The Indian Armed Forces contingent, consisting of 45 personnel, has arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam, to participate in the fourth edition of the Joint Military Exercise VINBAX-2023.

    Exercise VINBAX-2023

    • Inception: VINBAX was established in 2018, with its inaugural edition held in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India.
    • Annual Event: This training event is conducted annually, alternating between India and Vietnam. The last edition took place at Chandimandir Military Station in August 2022.
    • Collaborative Partnership: The exercise aims to foster collaborative partnerships and promote interoperability between the two nations.
    • Focus on Peacekeeping: It is aligned with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on Peace Keeping Operations.
    • Training Emphasis: The focus is on the deployment and employment of an Engineer Company and a Medical Team in a Command Post Exercise cum Field Training Exercise format.

    Activities and Training Modules

    • Tactical Exchange: The exercise will facilitate the exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures between the contingents.
    • Engineering and Medical Drills: Participants will share modern methods for constructing roads, culverts, helipads, ammunition shelters, and observation posts. Combat engineering and medical drills are also part of the training.
    • Validation Exercise: The exercise will conclude with a Validation Exercise to showcase the standards achieved by both contingents.

  • UNLF Peace Accord: Why one pact is not peace

    Central idea 

    In a volatile state like Manipur, peace agreements can be challenging to implement because of the multiplicity of stakeholders and their divergent interests and grievances

    Key Highlights:

    • Welcoming a Milestone Accord: Recent peace accord between UNLF in Manipur and the government of India viewed positively for its potential impact on regional normalcy.
    • Regional Peace Trends: Successful peace deals in Northeastern states like Mizoram, Tripura, and Shillong, along with significant progress in Assam through accords with separatist groups.

    Key Challenges:

    • Lurking Threat of Looted Arms: The presence of approximately 4,500 looted arms in various hands poses a substantial threat to the journey towards lasting peace.
    • Complexities in UNLF Accord: Lack of clarity on the terms of the UNLF peace accord and potential complications arising from the involvement of militants in ethnic conflicts.
    • Diverse Demands and Historical Grievances: Reconciling diverse demands and historical grievances from various ethnic and tribal communities in Manipur emerges as a complex challenge.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Peace Dynamics: Peace accord, insurgency, Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
    • Challenges in Reconciliation: Multiplicity of stakeholders, ethnic conflicts, geopolitical factors.
    • Key Players: Separatist groups, militant factions, political negotiations.

    Key Quotes/Statements:

    • “Any peace initiative is welcome — more so if it deals with a militant group abjuring arms to join the mainstream.”
    • “The biggest hurdle in the road to peace remains the floating looted arms numbering around 4,500 in various hands.”
    • “Diverse demands from various ethnic and/or tribal communities… making it hard to arrive at a resolution that satisfies all parties.”

    Key Examples/References:

    • Positive Precedents: Peace accords in Mizoram, Tripura, Shillong, and Assam leading to regional normalization.
    • NSCN-IM Accord: The signing of an accord by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland — Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) in 2015.
    • Militant Factions in UNLF: Presence of factions like the Pambei faction advocating for dialogue.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Ban Extension: The ban extension on nine Meiti extremist groups, including UNLF and Manipur People’s Army (MPA).
    • Surrender Statistics: Tripartite accords initiated by the Centre since 2014 leading to 6,112 insurgents surrendering.
    • Arms Challenge: Presence of 4,500 looted arms posing a significant challenge to peace efforts.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Distrust and External Influences: Challenges in implementing peace agreements due to historical distrust, external influences, and divergent interests.
    • Fragility of Agreements: The fragility of peace agreements highlighted by disruptions caused by extremist factions or splinter groups.
    • State’s Volatility: Manipur’s volatile state demands comprehensive efforts for lasting peace.

    Way Forward:

    • Addressing Arm Threat: Focus on resolving the issue of looted arms to ensure a major cause of concern is adequately addressed.
    • Transparent Communication: Clearly communicate the terms of the UNLF peace accord to manage expectations and foster understanding.
    • Holistic Approach: Focus on political negotiations, rehabilitation of displaced individuals, and dismantling militant-controlled zones.
    • Inclusive Engagement: Engage all political parties, appoint a political negotiator, and seek a comprehensive agreement that satisfies various stakeholders.

  • [pib] Exercise MILAN

    Exercise MILAN

    Central Idea

    • Scheduled for February 2024, Exercise MILAN is set to be India’s largest multilateral naval exercise, with over 50 countries expected to participate.

    Exercise MILAN

    • Origin: Biennial exercise initiated by the Indian Navy in 1995 at the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
    • Initial Participation: Began with four countries – Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand in 1995.
    • Growth over Years: The exercise has significantly grown in the number of participants and the complexity of exercises.
    • Expansion with Policies: Expanded under India’s ‘Act East policy’ and the SAGAR initiative.
    • Broader Inclusion: Now includes island nations in the Western Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and IOR littoral states.

    Significance of Exercise MILAN

    • Showcasing Naval Strength: This exercise reflects the Indian Navy’s growing engagement and capability to assist as a first responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
    • Enhanced Operational Reach: The Indian Navy’s increasing presence and operational reach through Mission Based Deployments and other engagements underscore India’s commitment to strong defense ties.
    • Importance of Naval Exercises: Conducting 17 multilateral and 20 bilateral exercises annually, these events are crucial for operational capability enhancement, interoperability, and strengthening diplomatic and maritime security ties.

  • Centre and Manipur signs Peace Agreement with UNLF

    UNLF

    Central Idea

    • The Union and Manipur governments have signed a peace agreement with the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), a banned Meitei extremist organisation.
    • UNLF is the oldest armed group based in the Manipur valley, marking this agreement as a notable event in the region’s history.

    Understanding the UNLF

    • Formation: Established on November 24, 1964, under Arembam Samarendra Singh‘s leadership, the UNLF is the oldest valley-based insurgent group in Manipur.
    • Diverse Leadership: Initially led by a mix of ethnicities, including Naga and Kuki leaders.
    • Armed Wing and Activities: The Manipur People’s Army, formed in 1990, and has been responsible for multiple attacks against Indian security forces.
    • Current Status: The UNLF, now split into two factions, is estimated to have 400-500 cadres, operating primarily in the valley areas of Manipur and some Kuki-Zomi hill districts.
    • Base of Operations: Largely operating from Myanmar, the group has faced setbacks due to conflicts with the Myanmar military and other Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs).

    Precedent for the Peace Agreement

    • Historical Context: This is a significant development as Meitei Extremist Organisations (VBIGs) have traditionally not engaged in peace talks with the Centre.
    • Previous Instances: Smaller groups like UPPK, KCP, and Maoist Communist Group have disbanded or diminished in influence, but the terms of their agreements are unclear.
    • UNLF’s Internal Dynamics: The group underwent splits in the mid-1990s and 2021, leading to the formation of factions under different leaders. The faction led by Khundongbam Pambei has been open to negotiations since 2020.

    Status of Other Insurgent Groups

    • Broader Insurgency Landscape: The UNLF is one of several Meitei insurgent groups and is among the seven banned by the Union government.
    • Opposition to Talks: The UNLF faction under NC Koireng remains opposed to peace talks.
    • Agreements with Other Groups: A Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement was reached in 2008 with Kuki-Zomi insurgent groups, but the Manipur government withdrew from agreements with some groups in 2022.

    Conclusion

    • The peace agreement with the UNLF marks a critical step in addressing the long-standing insurgency in Manipur.
    • It reflects a shift in the approach of Meitei insurgent groups towards dialogue and potential reconciliation.
    • The success of this agreement could pave the way for further peace initiatives in the region, contributing to stability and development in Manipur.

  • How UAPA has become more draconian over the years?

    Central Idea

    • Students in Jammu & Kashmir were booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) after allegations of abuse and threats during the World Cup final, along with raising pro-Pakistan slogans.
    • Jammu & Kashmir police invoked a ‘softer provision’ of UAPA, citing the act of ‘terrorizing’ others with pro-India or anti-Pakistan sentiments.

    What is UAPA?

    • Purpose: UAPA empowers the government to investigate and prosecute acts of terrorism, and to designate entities as “unlawful” or “terrorist” organizations or individuals.
    • Enactment: Introduced in 1967, based on recommendations from the National Integration Council to counter national divisiveness. Initially focused on secessionist activities without explicit mention of terrorism.
    • Evolution of UAPA:
    1. Introduction of Terrorism (2004): Post-repeal of POTA, UAPA was amended to include terrorism. It defined terrorism, associated punishments, and introduced provisions for seizing ‘proceeds of terrorism’.
    2. Post-26/11 Amendments (2008): Expanded the definition of terrorism, introduced stringent bail conditions, and extended police and judicial custody durations. It also made bail more difficult to obtain and shifted the burden of proof to the accused in certain cases.
    3. Economic Security (2012): Included economic security under terrorism, categorizing activities like counterfeiting currency as terrorist acts. It also increased the duration for which an organization could be declared unlawful.
    4. Individual Designation (2019): Allowed the government to designate individuals as terrorists and expanded the NIA’s powers.

    The ‘Softer’ Provision: Section 13

    • Section 13 of UAPA: Deals with punishment for ‘unlawful activities’ rather than ‘terrorist activities’. It includes imprisonment up to seven years for participating in, advocating, abetting, or inciting unlawful activities.
    • Implications: Although termed ‘softer’, this section still carries significant penalties and makes bail challenging to obtain.

    Criticism and Concerns

    • Vague Definitions: The act’s broad and vague definitions, especially post-2008 amendments, allow for a wide interpretation of what constitutes terrorism or unlawful activities.
    • Human Rights Concerns: The act has been criticized for potentially violating human rights, including the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial.
    • Use against Dissenters: There have been instances where UAPA has been used against activists, journalists, and protestors, raising concerns about its use to suppress dissent.

    Conclusion: Balancing Security and Rights

    • Need for Scrutiny: The use of UAPA, especially its ‘softer’ provisions, requires careful scrutiny to ensure it doesn’t infringe on fundamental rights while addressing security concerns.
    • Debate on Amendments: Ongoing debates about UAPA focus on finding a balance between national security needs and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.